While a nation has spent the past two years saying a hearty yes, chef!
to FX’s restaurant drama The Bear—and it is indeed a drama, despite the Emmys declaring it a comedy—some of us have been unable to join the chorus. Christopher Storer’s show has its merits: artful aesthetics, committed performances, insider knowledge of a fascinating industry. But it is also a series confused (or careless) about its intentions, unwilling to commit to anything—tone, tempo, purpose—except its own idea of itself as something grand.
The Disjointed Narrative Experience
Season three (premiered on Hulu on June 26) is marked by Storer’s experiments in form. Though these may seem more calculated than curious, they often come across as Storer showcasing his technical skills rather than keeping the series cohesive. The question remains: What is The Bear really about?
The anxieties and griefs of work and family, ambition and the alienation it creates—these are worthy subjects. However, in its shifts in style and focus, The Bear, after three seasons, does not seem to be building towards much. Storer’s approach seems more driven by form than substance.
Tensions in Time and Talent
The season opens with an episode—a montage peppered with dialogue—that moves back and forth through time as Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) deals with past and present stresses. He’s haunted by memories of kitchens led by chefs such as Terry (Olivia Colman) and a cruel overseer (Joel McHale).
Two episodes stand out: Ice Chips,
featuring strong performances from Jamie Lee Curtis and Abby Elliott as they navigate familial tensions; and Napkins,
which gracefully explores character origins with Liza Colón-Zayas delivering an excellent performance. These episodes shine with their focused storytelling.
Kitchens of Intensity
The kitchen scenes are vivid but strained. Carmy’s intense drama about his work often feels overwrought. The central metaphor of cooking representing life struggles isn’t explored deeply enough—it simply asks viewers to accept this premise without much development.
Notable Guest Appearances
Eminent chefs like Thomas Keller and Daniel Boulud make appearances this season, contributing insights into culinary craftsmanship. Thomas Keller’s warm interaction with Carmy while teaching him to truss a game hen brings authenticity.
Where Does It Leave Us?
Ultimately, Storer’s insistence on high-concept execution can both intrigue and alienate viewers. Some might find profundity within the chaos, partly illuminated by real chefs’ wisdom. Yet many might feel caught in a whirlwind of style over substantial narrative growth—the meat both over- and under-cooked.
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